Grimes is the likely Democrat who will take on Republican Mitch McConnell in the general election and polls numbers have her in a statistical tie with the 28-year incumbent.

The senator's re-election campaign announced Friday it raised $2.2 million during the same period.

"Sen. McConnell—unlike his challengers—made the decision to cancel fundraising efforts during the government shutdown and was still able to bring in over two million dollars this quarter, which further illustrates the enthusiastic support he is gaining every day from people across America who appreciate his conservative leadership and willingness to fight on their behalf," says McConnell campaign manager Jesse Benton.

The GOP leader has raised an impressive $20 million in this cycle overall, but has spent nearly half of that haul with $10.9 million in cash-on-hand.

Grimes campaign spokeswoman Charly Norton says their fundraising also represents a grassroots foundation, pointing out they have an average donation of $25 with over 26,000 contributions under $50.